Preparations for the IPL 2027 mini-auction are going on in full swing, with franchises making important changes to their squads. In recent developments, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) And Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) completed the trade of four players on November 5, which sparked discussion over the strategy behind this unexpected deal. Former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has now shared his opinion, questioning Chennai’s decision and suggesting that the franchise may have a bigger auction plan.
Under this agreement, CSK has signed Indian fast bowler Khalil Ahmed and Australian pacer nathan ellis Assigned to SRH. In return, Chennai has given England’s explosive batsman liam livingstone and Australian bowling all-rounder jack edwards Received the services of. Livingstone reportedly joined CSK at a cut-price price of ₹6 crore, making his acquisition an interesting part of the deal.
Ravichandran Ashwin supports CSK’s decision on Liam Livingstone
One of the major concerns of Chennai when entering IPL 2027 is to find a reliable power-hitter who can effectively finish the innings in the final overs.
ms dhoni ‘s participation in the upcoming season is uncertain, as he missed the entire 2026 campaign, so the franchise may look for options to strengthen its lower-middle order.Ashwin believes that Livingstone can fulfill this requirement. The England batsman is known for his ability to attack fast bowling and smash boundaries, which could make him an important addition to Chennai’s batting line-up. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin explained why the low acquisition cost makes the move worth considering.
“At a low cost of Rs 6 crore, CSK have bet on Livingstone. He can hit the big shots, and CSK is looking for a pace-hitting finisher for Dhoni. He can take a turn as a pace-hitter at Chepauk,” Ashwin said.
The former CSK spinner suggested that Chennai may hope that Livingstone rediscovers his best form and becomes an effective option at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Ashwin believes SRH have benefited more from trade
While acknowledging Livingstone’s chances, Ashwin was not entirely satisfied with Chennai’s decision to part with two established bowling options.
Khalil and Ellis have the experience and skill to contribute regularly with the ball. Their departure may leave CSK with questions about their fast bowling combination, especially considering that both players had the potential to feature in the first-choice XI.Ashwin also pointed out that this trade could bring significant benefits to Hyderabad. SRH play their home matches at a high-scoring venue, where having an additional defensive bowling option could be valuable.
“This trade came out of course. I am surprised that CSK made this move. This trade is a big benefit for SRH. Hyderabad is a high-scoring ground, and SRH have added another defensive bowler to their squad in the form of Ellis. CSK have left out two first-11 players. But it remains to be seen whether Livingstone and Edwards are first-11 options for CSK,” He added.
Ashwin highlights CSK’s bigger objective
Despite questioning the immediate benefits of the deal, Ashwin believes Chennai may be working towards a bigger objective ahead of the December auction.
the franchisee Prashant Veer And have also released a number of other players, potentially creating significant financial flexibility. According to Ashwin, CSK could enter the auction with a sum of around ₹25-30 crore, which will give them an opportunity to compete aggressively for high-profile players. He especially cameron green Mentioned that he could be a potential marquee target, while he also highlighted Chennai’s interest in acquiring a quality left-arm spinner.
“But I think CSK is probably planning something internally which is not obvious outside. By releasing Prashant Veer and some other players, they can enter the auction with Rs 25 to 30 crores. Maybe they are sensing marquee players like Cameron Green coming into the auction. I have also heard that CSK is looking for a left-arm spinner,” Ashwin said further.
